2024 Buick Encore GX: Beginning of a New Stylistic Era
The 2024 Buick Encore GX gets a styling makeover with a new design and new Buick badge. We keep the original engines, but we add a more luxurious Avenir version.
Buick revived one of its most iconic design names when it unveiled the Wildcat EV in 2020. Buick was already saying loud and clear that this sleek coupe would be the starting point for the brand’s styling future in the three shields. The Encore GX will therefore be the first production vehicle in North America to take advantage of this new approach. By the very admission of Buick’s styling team, there is now a before and an after for the unveiling of the 2024 GX.
The aesthetic changes affect almost only the front. There are some striking elements such as the very low and flared position of the grille dressed in a fine mesh. The headlight clusters are now split into two sections with the LED daytime running lights maintaining a hooked shape. In the center, to give it a more dynamic appearance, a new hood moves forward to create a “shark nose” effect.
On this point, it is impossible not to see a replica of the appearance of the electric Hyundai Kona. On this nose, we discover a brand new logo, a first since the withdrawal of colors in 2002. This new crest no longer has circles, and the shields are no longer tilted, they are straight. In addition, we are witnessing the return of accents of red, gray and blue. To avoid confusion, the logo is also found on the tailgate above the BUICK inscription in the center.
Buick changes the lineup of the GX lineup. At the opening, we always find the “Privilege” which comes de facto with 18-inch rims painted black. Subsequently, the ST (Sport Touring) set is no longer just an accessory, it becomes equipment in itself. It also receives rims painted black, but this time 19 inches. To give it a sportier look, the rocker panels and wheel arches are painted black.
Finally, at the top of the range, we discover for the first time a more luxury-oriented “Avenir” version. Here, we add a dark chrome in the grille, a little more chrome at the bottom of the body, and the entire body opts for a harmonized color. In his case, the rims are gray and 19 inches. For greater distinction, the lenses of its lights are clear on a gray background.
Inside, the changes are significant. The entire dashboard is revisited. Within a large 19-inch black wall light, we introduce fully digital instrumentation with an 8-inch display and an 11-inch multimedia screen. Interestingly, just like Cadillac, Buick is now entitled to its own graphic design with a brownish tint. These accessories are standard in all versions of the 2024 Encore GX. Another feature on board the ST version is a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
In terms of motorization, it’s dead calm. The base “Preferred” front-drive version comes with the 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder that develops 137 horsepower and produces 162 lb-ft of torque. This mechanism is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). For all 4-wheel drive versions, optional on the Privilege version and standard on the ST and the Avenir, we discover another turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, but this time of 1.3 liters. Its power is 155 horsepower and its torque is 174 lb-ft. In his case, we retain the services of a 9-speed automatic gearbox.
The first copies of the 2024 Buick Encore GX are expected next spring.
